The Covenant of Circumcision: A year before the birth of the promised son, Yahweh strengthens the relationship with Abram by renewing their covenant. Covenant is central to this narrative: “my covenant” occurs nine times (vv. 2, 4, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 19, 21) and “covenant” four times (vv. 7, 11, 13, 19). The use of the word “everlasting” captures God’s firm resolution to establish a people through Abram. That word occurs three times with covenant (vv. 7, 13, 19) and once with possession (v. 8).

Here God defines his relationship with Abram specifically. God exhorts Abram to conduct himself with integrity. God changes the names of Abram and Sarai. God prescribes circumcision. God announces that Sarah will bear a son within a year. Finally, God tells Abraham to name his son Isaac. The sign of c…